Liverpool’s star defender, Trent Alexander-Arnold, has been making waves beyond the football pitch with reports suggesting that he is looking to acquire French Ligue 1 club FC Nantes. The England international, who has recently been linked with a move to Real Madrid, is reportedly in negotiations to buy the club for a sum of £84 million (€100 million).
Details of the Takeover Bid
According to reports from France, Alexander-Arnold, along with his father Michael, initiated talks with FC Nantes’ management in the summer of 2024. The proposal, managed through a London-based investment firm headed by his father, includes an offer of €80 million upfront, with an additional €20 million in deferred payments. There are also potential bonuses totaling up to €40 million depending on future club performance.
However, the current owner of FC Nantes, Waldemar Kita, is reportedly unhappy with the financial terms of the offer and the fact that news of the deal was leaked to the media. Despite this, the negotiations are ongoing, and it remains to be seen whether Alexander-Arnold will succeed in his quest to take control of the French club.
Why FC Nantes?
FC Nantes, a club with a storied history in French football, has won eight Ligue 1 titles in its past. While the team has struggled in recent years, the opportunity to revive one of France’s most respected clubs seems to have captured the interest of Alexander-Arnold. Prior to Nantes, the Liverpool star reportedly considered purchasing other French clubs, including AS Saint-Etienne and Le Havre, before settling on Nantes.
Alexander-Arnold’s Growing Business Interests
This isn’t the first time Trent Alexander-Arnold has explored opportunities outside of football. The 25-year-old right-back is already a minority shareholder in the Alpine Formula 1 team, showing his expanding interest in the world of sports business. His potential acquisition of FC Nantes would mark a major step forward in his career as a businessman.
Future at Liverpool: Uncertainty Ahead?
Amidst the ongoing takeover talks, there has been increased speculation about Alexander-Arnold’s future at Liverpool. His contract at Anfield expires in the summer of 2025, and with no new agreement currently in place, fans have expressed concern about his long-term commitment to the club. Real Madrid has long been interested in the talented right-back, and rumors of a potential move to Spain have only fueled speculation about his next steps.
New Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has played down concerns, stating that while several key players, including Alexander-Arnold, are nearing the end of their contracts, the situation is under control. Slot has emphasized that contract negotiations are not a distraction, and the focus remains on improving the team’s performance.
What’s Next for Trent?
Whether or not Trent Alexander-Arnold’s bid to take over FC Nantes will succeed remains to be seen. The Liverpool star is clearly looking to diversify his career and make his mark in the business world. Fans will be watching closely to see what impact this potential acquisition might have on both his future in football and his evolving role as a businessman.